Jesse Garza, Sr.

Jesse Garza Sr., a man of profound integrity and unwavering dedication to his family, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on November 9, 2024. He was born on July 30, 1965, to Jorge and Diana Aguayo Sr. and will be dearly missed by all who knew him and loved him. Jesse lived a life characterized by his generosity, courage, and love.

Jesse was a proud graduate of the San Diego Vaquero class of 1983, where he demonstrated his team spirit and resilience on the football field. His pursuit of excellence led him to Del Mar College, where he earned his degree as a Certified Welder. Jesse's work ethic and versatility were evident throughout his diverse career. He mastered various trades, including construction, oil field work, truck driving, and served with distinction as a Deputy for the Duval County Sheriff’s Department.

His commitment to his country was unwavering, as Jesse joined the United States Army. His service was decorated with numerous commendations including: the Driver and Mechanic Badge, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Iraq Campaign Medal. He also dedicated 22 years to the Army National Guard, a testament to his courageous spirit and patriotism.

Jesse’s passions in life were the simple pleasures of barbecuing, family gatherings, hunting, or just listening to the melodies of Tejano music, which often filled his home creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness. Above all, Jesse was a humble man who lived by the virtues of honesty, respect, word of honor, punctuality, and hard work. His kind and generous nature made him the best provider, a selfless soul who always put others before himself.

Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, Jorge and Diana Aguayo Sr.; his maternal grandparents, Federico and Eloisa Garza; and his father-in-law, Hector Sanchez Sr. They have now welcomed him with open arms into eternal rest.

Left to cherish his memory is his faithful and loving wife of 28 years, Linda Garza, and his children who were the pride and joy of his life, Maria Elena Garza, Ruby Ann Garza, Jesse Garza Jr., and Julian (Kendra) Garza. His siblings, JoAnn (Noe) Vera, Jorge Aguayo Jr., Georgette Aguayo, Nilda (Benito) Mejia, and Joe (Tammy) Aguayo; mother-in-law, Maria Elena (Luis) Sanchez; brothers-in-law, Ernesto (Jessica) Flores, Hector Sanchez Jr., and Anthony (Marilyn) Sanchez, sisters-in-law, Betty (Eduardo) Gonzalez and Stephanie (Anselmo) Benavides; 15 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who were touched by his generous spirit and will cherish his memories.

Jesse’s life was a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of living with purpose and love. As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, we celebrate the indelible mark he has left on our hearts and the community he so cherished.

Jesse’s family will receive condolence on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Trevino Funeral Home, 120 E. Front St., from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM, with Holy Rosary to be recited at 6:00 PM. A funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 9:30 AM on Monday November 18, 2024, for Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 AM at Our Lady Of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Rite of Committal and Interment with Military Honors will follow at San Diego Cemetery #2, in San Diego, Texas.

Honoring Jesse as pallbearers are Veterans and Brothers in Arm, Eddie Cruz, Israel Vasquez, Noe Garcia, William Austin, Jesse Villanueva, and Celso Ramirez Jr.  Honorary pallbearers will be Ruben Gutierrez, Domingo Perez, and Jorge Aguayo Jr.

To leave your condolences for the family of Jesse Garza Sr., share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.